Blog by author, Clare Jayne

2017 has been an excellent year for new historical mysteries and here are some of the most popular, both one-off novels and those that are part of a much-loved series. “The Long Drop” by Denise Mina is part novel and part factual account of the 1958 trial of a serial killer, which won the 2017 … [Read more…]

Here is the last half of this list of popular historical mysteries that have a winter theme and are perfect fireside-reading this festive season. “Thou Shell of Death” by Nicholas Blake – A former World War One pilot is sent letters threatening his murder on Boxing Day. On the fateful day he gathers together everyone … [Read more…]

If you’re a fan of historical mysteries you will love this list of popular winter-themed historical mystery stories and novels to enjoy reading over the festive season. There are books by best-selling mystery writers from past and present. “Hercule Poirot’s Christmas” (aka “A Holiday for Murder” and “Murder for Christmas”) by Agatha Christie – the … [Read more…]

Samhain, which has now become Halloween, is one of four pagan festivals celebrated over the course of a year, the others being Imbolc, Beltane and Lughnasadh. Its origins go back at least 2,000 years and possibly a lot longer, having been celebrated by the Irish Celts. Traditionally held from the evening of 31 October until … [Read more…]

“The Dead Duke“, the second novel in my Campbell & MacPherson historical mystery series, is now available for pre-order and will be released on 7 November. To celebrate, “Lady Tinbough’s Dilemma“, the first book in the series, will be free to download from Amazon between 3 and 4 November, while the new book’s pre-order price … [Read more…]

Diana Gabaldon’s best-selling “Outlander” novels and the TV series based on them are set in the Highlands of Scotland, beginning in 1743 and major events occur between then and 45 years later to make the country an entirely different place by 1788, when my novels, set in the Scottish Lowlands area of Edinburgh, are based. … [Read more…]

Congratulations to Dayana V. who won my big historical mystery novel giveaway and has 5 great books in the post on their way to her. Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway. I really enjoyed reading all the comments about why you love historical mysteries.

I’m thrilled to announce the release of my new novel, “Campbell & MacPherson 1: Lady Tinbough’s Dilemma” today. It is the first in a series of historical cozy mysteries set in Georgian-era Edinburgh and combines humour, romance and mystery. You can read the first chapter on this website here or download a sample to try … [Read more…]

To celebrate the upcoming release of “Campbell & MacPherson 1: Lady Tinbough’s Dilemma” on 17 March, I have 5 historical mystery paperbacks to be sent to a lucky winner. Rules The Giveaway is hosted by Gleam and is open internationally in anyone over 18. To enter you just have to say why you want to … [Read more…]

Agatha Christie’s novels need no introduction. The only tough choice is which to recommend. Of the Miss Marple stories, “A Murder is Announced” is probably my favourite, beginning with the clever idea of a murder announcement in a newspaper and containing an interesting mix of characters and a plot full of twists and turns. Of … [Read more…]

Campbell & MacPherson Historical Mystery Series

Complications

Free Series Guide and Story

Get my Guide to the Campbell & MacPherson historical mystery series, as well as "A Lively Christmas Season", a free short sequel to "Complications", and details of my latest books and special offers by joining my e-mail newsletter.